Interview with Runway Photographer

SPENCER OLIPHANT

Please introduce yourself

I'm Spencer Oliphant, I live in Lehi, UT, and I'm a full-time digital product manager for a healthcare recruiting firm. 

When did you notice that you love photography? When did you decide to become a photographer?

I've always liked taking photos. I didn't take any photos of people until 2020 when I started taking some online classes to try and learn. Since then, people are my whole photography focus. 

What is your favorite kind of photoshoot?

I actually love taking digitals. Anything in a studio is fun for me because I get to have so much more control over the light and it translates into my vision better. 

I also absolutely love shooting fashion shows. More for the environment than anything. I love the energy. 

What challenges do you have as a photographer?

I'm a much more technical photographer than I am a creative photographer. So I love being able to collaborate with people and help bring their vision to life as much as I love executing on my own vision.

Do you have any idols? (For example, photographers whose work you admire?)

I go through short term obsessions with lots of photographers. Shane Rad out of LA is definitely one I've admired for as long as I've been involved in the fashion photography world. 

How do you plan for a successful photo session?

For me, my biggest focus is lighting. I want to make sure that I have whatever tools I need to be able to create photos that look as bright and true to life as they look to me in the moment. 

Where do you get your inspirations to create?

For me, it's all about the people I am shooting. One of my favorite things to do at shoots is have my model bring at least one outfit that's entirely their choice and feels like their style. I love the confidence that comes out in people when they're just truly feeling themselves.

What would you say to people who want to become photographers?

Become a photography student before you become a photographer. Learn everything you can about how cameras work and then learn twice that much about lighting. And then practice, because even when you feel like you know it all, you've barely scratched the surface. 

Anything else you would like to share with our readers?

I guess while I have the chance, I'd urge everyone to learn to love. Show love to yourself by learning about yourself and improving yourself. Show love to others by learning what they need to feel cared for and loved, and then give it to them. Everyone only has so much emotional capacity, but as long as you've got extra, share it by showing love. 

Photographer: Spencer Oliphant

@spenceroliphantphoto